Which of the following is a contraindication for external cephalic version?

Which of the following is a contraindication for external cephalic version?

• A. Fetal growth restriction
• B. Breech presentation
• C. Multiple gestation
• D. Gestational diabetes

Answer: (B)

The practice of external cephalic version (ECV) is often considered for a fetus that is in a breech presentation, as the procedure aims to turn the fetus into a head-down position before delivery. However, there are specific contraindications for performing ECV that are important to recognize. Breech presentation itself is not a contraindication; rather, it is the primary indication for considering ECV. The procedure's goal is to correct the breech presentation, and therefore, it is essential to differentiate between what constitutes a contraindication and what indicates the need for the procedure. In the context of contraindications, certain factors may pose a risk to either the mother or the fetus if they undergo the ECV procedure. For example, conditions like fetal growth restriction, multiple gestation, or certain maternal complications may make it unsafe to attempt the procedure. Fetal growth restriction, for instance, introduces concerns about the health and well-being of the fetus during the manipulation involved in ECV. Similarly, multiple gestations can complicate the procedure, as the presence of more than one fetus increases the potential for adverse outcomes. In summary, while breech presentation is the scenario that typically prompts consideration for ECV, it is not a contraindication. The

The practice of external cephalic version (ECV) is often considered for a fetus that is in a breech presentation, as the procedure aims to turn the fetus into a head-down position before delivery. However, there are specific contraindications for performing ECV that are important to recognize.

Breech presentation itself is not a contraindication; rather, it is the primary indication for considering ECV. The procedure's goal is to correct the breech presentation, and therefore, it is essential to differentiate between what constitutes a contraindication and what indicates the need for the procedure.

In the context of contraindications, certain factors may pose a risk to either the mother or the fetus if they undergo the ECV procedure. For example, conditions like fetal growth restriction, multiple gestation, or certain maternal complications may make it unsafe to attempt the procedure. Fetal growth restriction, for instance, introduces concerns about the health and well-being of the fetus during the manipulation involved in ECV. Similarly, multiple gestations can complicate the procedure, as the presence of more than one fetus increases the potential for adverse outcomes.

In summary, while breech presentation is the scenario that typically prompts consideration for ECV, it is not a contraindication. The